The Delhi High Court recently allowed two kabaddi players to compete and represent India in the Junior World Championship (Boys) after their injury during practice.
The petitioners, Rohit Kumar (& Anr) had approached the Court when it was proposed that they return to moderate training due to injuries.
A single bench of Justice Prathiba M. Singh noted that the opportunity to compete in the World Cup is something that every athlete looks forward to in his or her sports career.
The Court added that a decision to not send them to represent India, especially at such a late stage and without adequate grounds, would be demoralising not only to the Petitioners but also to the team as a whole.
Thus, the Court allowed the petitioners to travel to Iran where the World Cup is being held.
The petitioners claimed that minor injuries occurred during practise at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) camp. They got their medical check-up done with the doctor and were advised ‘Review after ten days’.
Nevertheless, in the instance of the Petitioners, SAI performed an unexpected medical, after which the Petitioners were notified by their coach that they would not be joining the Junior World Championship (Boys) squad.
Appearing on behalf of SAI, Counsel Arunima Dwivedi, stated that the doctor had urged that they not be transported to the World Cup this year in order to guarantee that there is no lasting damage and that the players are well rested.
The Court stated that a review of the prescription on file revealed that the athletes are not in discomfort or have any complaints.
“The Petitioners having been selected for the World Cup, in this background, this Court is of the opinion that the Petitioners ought to be permitted to participate and represent India in the Junior World Championship (Boys), in Iran.”, the bench stated in its decision while allowing the plea.
The Court then ordered the Administrator and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to take all necessary efforts to allow the Petitioners to accompany the squad to Iran.
